Government seeks consensus for changes in Land Acquisition Act

New Delhi: Government sought "consensus" to bring changes in the Land Acquisition Act to make it more investor-friendly but said it was not happening due to the "contradictory views" within political parties which are wanting changes in the legislation.

Rural Development Minister Nitin Gadkari also hit out at the "microscopic minority" of Opposition leaders for stalling the government's efforts to build consensus on bringing changes in the key farmer-friendly Act passed during the UPA's period.

The Minister said he was "confused".

"The issue is the microscopic minority leaders sitting in Delhi. Their practical chief ministers are saying something. They are giving in writing (the need for bringing changes in the Act). These people (microscopic minority leaders) are saying something else. I am confused," Gadkari said reacting to questions on the status of the government's efforts to bring changes in the Land Acquisition Act.

Replying to the Opposition's allegations that the government was bringing changes in the Act to please the industry, he also made it clear that the priority of the NDA was welfare of poor and there was "no question of reducing compensation package for farmers whose land is acquired for projects".

"Leaders from every political party were telling me in writing to bring changes in the Act... I wish to make it clear that whenever there will be a consensus on the matter, then the government will take a decision. There is no general consensus on the issue right now," the minister said at a press conference convened to highlight the achievements of his ministries during the first 100 days of the new government.

"Leaders of the parties which have presence in Parliament are saying that you do something to bring changes in Land Acquisition Act. These are people from the CPI (M), Congress, NCP and BJP...," Gadkari said.